As my wife and I are approached last 1/3 of working years, we look at our pension and mutual fund reports more frequently. I did most of my savings and investing before marriage and two kids as I knew not much money would left over until they grew up. Also, wife went back to university in her late 30's for a second degree and I was only bread winner for 5 years. Spent little and took a trip only every other year during that time. When she finished school, finances became much better as house income doubled.
Got lucky enough to get on Apple stocks along with other tech/financial stocks 20 years ago and they are doing well, although I haven't put any money into them for awhile or to any RRSP or TFSA. Reading "The Wealthy Barber" at age 22 when I finished university and started working was the best financial book I read at the time. Note: this mutual fund money won't be sole source of retirement fund to depend on as our two work DB pensions will generate $10-13K per month at 65 years old. Our house should be paid off by then so we'll have extra back up fund.
Now that both kids are in university (we are funding their education for 4 years max each and don't believe in going into debt that young of age), we have more financial breathing room and are able to take splurge a bit here and there for trips and spending, knowing that we'll be okay at 65. Still practising common sense, though. No new cars (current ones are 10 and 7 years old), spend on what we need vs. want, enjoy life a bit, and stay healthy to enjoy the golden years.
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